There have been multiple statewide campaigns and school programs about the dangers of driving while intoxicated. However, less attention is paid to another similar problem: walking while intoxicated. It may seem odd at first, but the statistics don’t lie: a significant number of serious and fatal pedestrian accidents each year in the United States involve walking while intoxicated.

Intoxicated pedestrian statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 34.6 percent of fatally injured pedestrians in the United States had a blood-alcohol level over 0.10 percent at the time of their traffic accident. Put another way, one out of three pedestrians killed in traffic accidents are legally intoxicated. The study also found that most intoxicated pedestrian accidents occur close to the victim’s home and that a significant number involved drivers who were also intoxicated.

How you can prevent drinking and walking traffic accidents

Authorities in many cities are working with lawmakers to jump-start public awareness programs that will help lessen the number of these collisions. Understanding why these accidents happen is also key – and many traffic safety experts believe that more studies regarding these accidents will help us with prevention.

Pedestrians should understand that while walking home drunk is much safer than driving home drunk, the best option is to drink moderately or to use another manner of public or private transportation to get home. Pedestrians should also be aware that even walking short distances while intoxicated can be dangerous, especially in urban areas.

Drivers should be aware that intoxicated pedestrians are on the streets and that they may behave erratically. Drunk pedestrians who are putting themselves or others in danger should be reported to the police. If you are with a friend who is intoxicated, it is most important that they do not drive home, but also consider other alternatives to walking, such as a ride with a friend, a cab, or public transportation.

Seattle pedestrian accident attorney

Pedestrian accidents can be absolutely devastating. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident or if a loved one has been killed in a pedestrian accident, it is key to know why the collision took place and who was at fault. To learn more about your case though a free evaluation, call Washington traffic accident lawyer Andrew Kim today at 800-636-3676.